Stapelia Desmetiana

Stapelia Desmetiana is a captivating succulent, prized by collectors for its striking and unusual blooms. The flowers are very similar in form to those of the related Stapelia Grandiflora, producing large, star-shaped structures that are equally smelly, a trait designed to attract their natural pollinators, flies. However, S. Desmetiana is distinguished by its unique floral characteristics; its petals are notably thicker and boast a deeper, richer, more intense dark coloration than its counterpart. These fleshy, maroon to deep purple stars rest against a backdrop of robust, green, cactus-like stems, creating a stunning contrast that makes this plant a fascinating, if fragrant, addition to any succulent collection.

LIGHT | Full sun 
COLD TOLERANCE | 10 ºC
WATER | Water generously when soil is dry.
SOIL PH | Unknown
SOIL TYPE | 30% potting mix 70% non organic material (pumice or perlite).
FERTILIZER | Fish emulsion, kelp solution, worm casting, shrimp compost.
PROPAGATION METHODS | Stem cuttings
HUMIDITY LEVEL | Low
ACTIVE SEASON | May - Sept.

NOTE

INSTRUCTIONS FOR ROOTING CUTTINGS 
Insert cutting into the soil (1" deep). When soil is dry, water the plant sparingly. Roots should form in two weeks. Plants should be in bright shade during the rooting period. To avoid leaves from getting burnt, acclimatize the plant to full sun.